If you're looking for a hearty, creamy, and satisfying meal to please the whole family, look no further than a Chicken Alfredo Casserole. This dish is the ultimate comfort food – a warm, cheesy, and decadent casserole that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Keep reading to discover how to make this mouthwatering casserole step-by-step, as well as tips for variations, substitutions, and perfect presentation ideas.
What is Chicken Alfredo Casserole?
Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a baked dish that combines pasta, typically penne or fettuccine, with tender, cooked chicken and a creamy Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is layered with cheese and baked to bubbly perfection. Unlike the traditional stovetop version of chicken Alfredo, this casserole version takes all the creamy goodness and bakes it together for an even more indulgent, comforting meal. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd.
Ingredients List for Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed – You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked chicken breasts for convenience.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni) – Any pasta shape works, but penne or rigatoni are great for holding the sauce.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce – You can use store-bought or homemade Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – This will add melty goodness to the top.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds that signature sharp, nutty flavor to the dish.
- ½ cup cream or milk – Helps keep the casserole creamy and prevents it from drying out.
- 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing garlic and adding richness to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the flavor of the sauce with its aromatic, savory taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Basic seasoning for the dish.
- 1 tablespoon parsley (optional) – Fresh parsley is great for garnish and adds a touch of color.
Ingredients List for Homemade Alfredo Sauce
If you want to make your own Alfredo sauce instead of using store-bought, here’s what you’ll need:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions and Variations
Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a versatile dish, and there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Protein Substitutes – Swap the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh if you're looking for a vegetarian option.
- Pasta Options – Instead of using traditional pasta, try using whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even veggie noodles (such as zucchini or spaghetti squash) to make the dish lighter or gluten-free.
- Cheese Variations – Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables – Sneak in some veggies for added nutrition. Broccoli, spinach, peas, or mushrooms can be added to the casserole to make it more hearty and colorful.
- Lighten It Up – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce or swap out regular pasta for a healthier alternative like chickpea pasta for a lighter version of the dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how you can put together this delicious Chicken Alfredo Casserole in just a few simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce (if making from scratch): In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce (either homemade or store-bought), and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Transfer to the baking dish: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
How to Cook Chicken Alfredo Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken – If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, cook chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat, season with salt and pepper, and shred or cube the meat once fully cooked.
- Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce – If you’re making your sauce from scratch, melt butter, sauté garlic, and stir in the cream and Parmesan. Season and let it simmer until thickened.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients – In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, pasta, and Alfredo sauce. Stir everything until it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
- Step 5: Bake – Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta – Be sure to cook your pasta al dente. Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Not Using Enough Sauce – Alfredo sauce is the star of the dish, so make sure you have plenty to keep the casserole creamy and moist.
- Skipping the Seasoning – Don’t forget to taste and season the dish properly before baking. Pasta and chicken need salt and pepper to bring out their flavors.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese – Opt for freshly grated Parmesan and a good-quality mozzarella. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture of the sauce.
- Overbaking – Keep an eye on the casserole while it's in the oven. Overbaking can dry out the dish, so once the top is golden and bubbly, it’s ready to come out.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can make your Chicken Alfredo Casserole look even more appetizing. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:
- Serve with Garlic Bread – A side of crusty garlic bread complements the creamy casserole perfectly and adds a nice crunch.
- Add a Salad – Serve your casserole with a simple green salad or Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
- Use a Decorative Baking Dish – Bake and serve the casserole in a colorful or elegant baking dish to elevate the presentation.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, basil, or chives adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Casserole
To serve, use a large serving spoon or spatula to scoop generous portions of the casserole onto plates. Since this dish is rich and filling, you can serve smaller portions alongside lighter sides like a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or a fruit platter. If you want to add some texture, sprinkle crispy breadcrumbs or crumbled bacon on top before baking for an extra crunch.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Alfredo Casserole
- Layered Look – When serving, try layering the pasta on a large platter, then top it with some extra Alfredo sauce and garnished parsley for a fancy, restaurant-style presentation.
- Serve in Individual Ramekins – For a more personalized touch, divide the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. This is great for dinner parties.
- Top with Fresh Herbs and Cheese – After the casserole is baked, a final sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil adds a fresh, elegant touch.
Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe Tips
- Prep Ahead – You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
- Freezing Instructions – Chicken Alfredo Casserole freezes well. Simply wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese – For a truly indulgent casserole, be generous with the mozzarella and Parmesan. The cheese not only adds flavor but also ensures a beautifully golden crust on top.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to bake it. - Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Casserole?
Absolutely. Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. - What other types of pasta can I use?
You can use any pasta shape, but penne, rigatoni, and fettuccine work best due to their sturdy structure that holds the sauce well. - Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, using store-bought Alfredo sauce is a time-saving option, though homemade always tastes best. - What can I serve alongside Chicken Alfredo Casserole?
A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments to balance the richness of the dish.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the comforting and creamy taste of Chicken Alfredo Casserole. It’s the perfect dish for feeding a crowd or preparing in advance for a busy weeknight. Whether you follow this recipe exactly or make your own variations, you’ll love the delicious combination of pasta, tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese. Give this recipe a try and see how it becomes a new family favorite!
PrintChicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe
Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a rich and creamy pasta bake loaded with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a garlicky Alfredo sauce. This comforting dish is topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a make-ahead meal, this easy chicken Alfredo casserole is a crowd-pleaser that's both hearty and delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole, Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce. Mix well and transfer to the baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to make it heartier.
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙th of casserole)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
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